While many people are familiar with the sweet fruit of the mango tree, it may surprise them to learn that mango leaves are also edible.
Mango leaves (scientific name: Mangifera indica) are from the Anacardiaceae family. They begin as reddish-green or purplish-green and mature into a darker green color.
Mango leaf extracts have traditionally been used in medicine to treat a variety of conditions, including diabetes, bronchitis, diarrhea, asthma, scabies, respiratory problems, syphilis, and urinary disorders.
Here are 6 Surprising Benefits of Mango leaves, Supported by Scientific Research
1. Rich in beneficial plant nutrients
Mango leaves contain numerous beneficial plant compounds, including polyphenols and terpenoids.
Polyphenols have antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties that promote gut health and may aid in the treatment or prevention of conditions such as obesity, diabetes, cardiovascular disease, and cancer. Terpenoids, or antioxidants, protect cells from free radicals and help to maintain good vision and immune function.
Furthermore, mango leaves may be a good source of minerals like nitrogen, potassium, phosphorus, iron, sodium, calcium, and magnesium, as well as vitamins A, B, E, and C.
2. High in Antioxidants
Free radicals produced during metabolism can contribute to a variety of degenerative diseases, including acquired immunodeficiency syndrome, ischemic conditions, and neurological disorders. Mango leaves are high in phenolics and flavonoids, which are antioxidants that help to reduce free radical damage and protect cells.
3. High in Anti-Inflammatory Properties
Chronic inflammation, defined as a prolonged immune response, can increase the risk of a variety of diseases, including Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s. An animal study found that mango leaf extract has anti-inflammatory properties, which may help counteract artificially induced oxidative and inflammatory markers in the brain.
4. May help manage diabetes
Animal studies have shown that the young leaves of the mango tree are high in phytochemicals and tannins known as anthocyanidins, which can help manage high blood sugar levels.
These leaves contain a compound called 3beta-taraxerol and ethyl acetate extract, which, when combined with insulin, activate glucose transporter type 4 (a channel in cells that facilitates glucose uptake) and stimulate glycogen synthesis. As a result, mango leaves may benefit the treatment of diabetic angiopathy and diabetic retinopathy.
5. Promotes digestive health
Consuming mango leaf infusion on a regular basis acts as a stomach tonic, aiding in the elimination of toxins and lowering the risk of gastrointestinal issues such as stomach ulcers and digestive disorders.
6. May have anti-cancer properties
Mango leaf polyphenols, such as gallotannins, phenolic acids, quercetin, and mangiferin, have anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties that make them chemopreventive against various types of cancer.